What is a United States Pony Club Qualifying Dressage Rally?
A United States Pony Club (USPC) Qualifying Dressage Rally is an equestrian competition designed to test the riding skills, horsemanship, and teamwork of Pony Club members. Riders of all ages and certification levels come together to compete not only as individuals but also as members of a team, supporting one another both in and out of the ring.
What Competitors and Teams Do?
At a dressage rally, competitors are grouped into teams of three to four riders plus a stable manager. Each rider completes one or more dressage tests appropriate to their age and certification level, demonstrating accuracy, harmony, and effective communication with their horse. Competitors wishing to qualify for the USPC Championship Rally, held during USPC Festival in 2026, will also need to create and ride a Musical Freestyle test appropriate for their age and certification level.
Just as important as the riding is the stable management component. Pony Club rallies are unique in that there is no outside help allowed from coaches, trainers, or parents once the competition begins. There will be areas where spectators can watch and cheer on the competitors. This area is called the Neutral Zone. It is also where parents and competitors can meet up. Team members are responsible for caring for their horses, organizing tack and equipment, and supporting each other throughout the day. A Chief Horse Management Judge (CHMJ) and Assistant Horse Management Judges evaluate how well teams maintain safety, organization, and horse care standards in the barn area.
The day typically includes:
- Turnout inspections – where riders and horses are checked for cleanliness, safety, and readiness.
- Dressage tests – judged rides in the arena to assess accuracy, obedience, and quality of movement.
- Stable management – ongoing evaluation of horse care, equipment organization, and teamwork.
- Awards – given not just for riding scores, but also for excellence in horse management.
How Dressage Rallies Fit into the USPC Mission?
The USPC mission is to develop character, leadership, confidence, and a sense of community through a program that teaches the care of horses, riding, and mounted sports. Dressage rallies embody this mission by blending competition with education.
- Character & Leadership: Riders must work together as a team, problem-solve without adult intervention, and show sportsmanship in and out of the arena.
- Confidence: Riders gain experience performing under pressure and managing responsibility for both their own performance and their horse’s well-being.
- Community: Pony Club rallies bring members from across regions together, creating friendships and a shared sense of accomplishment.
- Education: Every aspect of the rally—from tack checks to horse care—reinforces Pony Club’s emphasis on learning by doing.
In short, a Qualifying Dressage Rally is more than just a competition. It is a hands-on, team-based experience where riders deepen their horsemanship, test their riding skills, and live out the Pony Club values that shape them into well-rounded equestrians and responsible individuals.
*Our rally will be held at Galway Downs on Friday, September 26 and 27th. You may also contact the organizer, Ariel Jones @ [email protected].
